Observation based event tracking

ABSTRACT

A computer-implemented process of tracking events, is carried out by detecting that a first badge is within a personal-area network wireless communication range of a second badge, thus designating an encounter, and performing, by processor executing instructions read out from memory, an event logging transaction responsive to the encounter. The event logging transaction is performed by receiving, from the first badge, an electronic message characterizing an observation made by the user of the first badge relative to a user of the second badge, converting the electronic message received from the first badge into a pinpoint response, and generating an event record comprising an identification of an event type, and the pinpoint response.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/379,724, filed Aug. 25, 2016, entitledOBSERVATION BASED EVENT TRACKING, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to electronic systems that collectinformation related to the operation and movement of electronic badgesin industrial applications, and in particular to the utilization ofuser-based observational feedback for event tracking.

Wireless strategies are deployed by business operations, includingdistributors, retail stores, manufacturers, etc., to improve theefficiency and accuracy of business operations. Wireless strategies mayalso be deployed by such business operations to avoid the insidiouseffects of constantly increasing labor and logistics costs.

For instance, in a typical warehouse implementation, a forklift truck isequipped with a communications device that links a correspondingforklift truck operator to a management system executing on anassociated computer enterprise via a wireless transceiver. Essentially,the communications device is used as an interface to the managementsystem to direct the tasks of the forklift truck operator, e.g., byinstructing the forklift truck operator where and/or how to pick, pack,put away, move, stage, process or otherwise manipulate items within afacility.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to aspects of the present disclosure herein, acomputer-implemented process of tracking events comprises detecting thata first electronic badge is within a predetermined range of a secondelectronic badge and has formed a temporary wireless communicationnetwork (e.g., a personal-area network) therebetween, thus designatingan encounter. The computer-implemented process also comprisesperforming, by a processor executing instructions read out from memory,an event logging transaction responsive to the encounter. The eventlogging transaction is performed by receiving, from the first electronicbadge, an electronic message characterizing an observation made by theuser of the first electronic badge relative to a user of the secondelectronic badge, and converting the electronic message received fromthe first electronic badge into a pinpoint response. The event loggingtransaction is further performed by generating an event recordcomprising an identification of an event type, and the pinpointresponse.

According to further aspects of the present disclosure, acomputer-implemented process of tracking events comprises detecting, bya first electronic badge, the presence of a second electronic badge thatis within a wireless communication range of the first electronic badge,thus designating an encounter. The computer-implemented process alsocomprises performing, by a processor executing instructions read outfrom memory, an event logging transaction in response to the encounter.The event logging transaction is performed by identifying an event typeassociated with the second electronic badge, and identifying anelectronic pinpoint that is linked to the identified event type. Here,the identified pinpoint specifies an observable characteristicassociated with the event type. The event logging transaction alsocomprises outputting a prompt to a user of the first electronic badgethat is associated with the identified electronic pinpoint. The eventlogging transaction yet further comprises receiving, by the firstelectronic badge, from the user of the first electronic badge, anelectronic acknowledgement that a user of the second electronic badgehas engaged in an occurrence of the identified event type, andreceiving, by the first electronic badge, from the user of the firstelectronic badge, a response to the identified pinpoint. The eventlogging transaction still further comprises wirelessly communicating anevent record to a remote server, the event record comprising anidentification of the event type, and the response to the pinpoint.

According to yet further aspects of the present disclosure, acomputer-implemented process of tracking events comprises detecting, bya first electronic badge, the presence of a second electronic badge thatis within a wireless communication range of the first electronic badge.The computer-implemented process also comprises performing, by aprocessor executing on the first electronic badge, an event loggingtransaction in response to detecting the presence of the secondelectronic badge. The event logging transaction is performed byidentifying an event type associated with the second electronic badge byreceiving a geo-record of electronically recorded events associated withthe second badge within a corresponding geo-zone and selecting anelectronically recorded event as the event type. Thecomputer-implemented process further comprises identifying an electronicpinpoint that is linked to the identified event type. Here, theidentified pinpoint is based upon the geo-record and specifies anobservable characteristic associated with the event type. The eventlogging transaction further comprises outputting a prompt to a user ofthe first electronic badge that is associated with the identifiedelectronic pinpoint, and receiving, by the first electronic badge, fromthe user of the first electronic badge, an electronic acknowledgementthat a user of the second electronic badge has engaged in an occurrenceof the identified event type. The event logging transaction yet furthercomprises receiving, by the first electronic badge, from the user of thefirst electronic badge, a response to the identified pinpoint,wirelessly transmitting a message to the second electronic badgeindicating that an observation was made and wirelessly communicating anevent record to a remote server, the event record comprising anidentification of the event type, and the response to the pinpoint.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an industrial system, according to aspectsof the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system of electronics on an industrialvehicle such as a forklift truck, which includes an information linkingdevice, an environmental-based location tracking device, and a badgecommunicator, according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example electronic badge according toaspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the memory of the electronicbadge of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an example pedestrian-to-pedestrian encounter presenting anopportunity to generate an observational feedback event record;

FIG. 6 is an example pedestrian-to-industrial vehicle encounterpresenting an opportunity to generate an observational feedback eventrecord;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart of an example algorithm for carrying out acomputer-implemented process for event tracking based upon observationalfeedback;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart of an alternative example algorithm for carryingout a computer-implemented process for event tracking based uponobservational feedback;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of yet another alternative example algorithm forcarrying out a computer-implemented process for event tracking basedupon observational feedback; and

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a computer processing system capable ofimplementing any of the systems and/or processes (or subsets thereof)described more fully herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, systems andcomputer-implemented processes provide communication capabilitiesbetween electronic badges operating in an industrial environment, e.g.,a constrained environment such as a warehouse, a manufacturingenvironment, a commercial operation, etc. This enables an infrastructurefor implementing user-based observational feedback, such as for eventtracking.

As an introductory and non-limiting example, a first worker, e.g., apedestrian, can detect a second worker, e.g., forklift operator, followa proper procedure, e.g., make eye contact at an end of an aisle. Thefirst worker interacts with their electronic badge to record theobservation. In practice, the observation can be fed back to theelectronic badge of the forklift operator. Also, the observation can beused to augment, modify, enhance, complete, aggregate with, etc., one ormore operational generated event records, e.g., data recorded by datalogging capabilities of the forklift truck. In this regard, theelectronics on the forklift may be able to detect that the forkliftoperator stopped and sounded the horn at the end of the aisle. However,the electronics on the forklift are unable to detect that the forkliftoperator made eye contact with a nearby pedestrian. However, this datais collected by the electronic badges via the pedestrian implementingobservational feedback. In this manner, data is collected that could nototherwise be obtained by sensors alone, resulting in more complete eventrecords than could otherwise be generated. Moreover, automated control,e.g., of industrial vehicles, machines, electronic badges, etc., can beimplemented based upon data from sensors, and from dynamically generatedobservation and feedback. Many other details and features are describedmore fully herein.

The disclosure herein improves technologies of wireless communicationbetween industrial workers, wireless communication between pedestriansand operators of industrial vehicles, person-to-machine wirelesscommunication, machine-to-machine wireless communication, and electronicdetection and collection of events in proximity to, or otherwiseassociated with, electronic badges.

In particular, various aspects of the present disclosure address thetechnical problem of event detection and responsiveness. The presentdisclosure provides a technical solution that utilizes wirelesscommunication between electronic badges to generate events based uponobservational data, which is enabled via temporary, wirelesscommunication networks (e.g., personal-area networks). The presentdisclosure also provides a technical solution that comprises augmentingelectronic operational data automatically collected via a data loggingoperation, with localized short-range wireless communication betweenelectronic badges to electronically collect observational data. Theelectronically collected observational data can be used to corroborate,augment, modify, combine with, aggregate alongside with, or otherwise beprocessed with the collected operational data for event detection andresponsiveness actions.

According to yet further aspects of the present disclosure, thecollected observational data can also and/or alternatively be combinedwith environmental-based location information, industrial vehicleoperational information, domain-level information, combinations thereof,etc., for event detection and responsiveness actions, as set out ingreater detail herein. Yet further, various aspects of the presentdisclosure address the technical problem of event detection andresponsiveness by utilizing geo-features to dynamically alter theavailability of pinpoints used to collect observational feedback. Inthis regard, the geo-features can serve as predictive electronicstructures to pre-emptively select and route appropriate pinpoints toelectronic badges encountering such geo-features.

The technical solutions herein bring about several technical effects,including automated electronic badge communication through thecombination of one or more communication networks (e.g., a personal-areanetwork) and a local area network, improved machine-to-machinecommunication, and improved environmental and situational awarenessbetween electronic badges. Moreover, the above technologies are improvedby enabling mobile badges to collect observational data that cannototherwise be collected by conventional data logging systems. Bycombining observational data with collected electronic data, new typesof events can be recorded that are not otherwise possible. Thisfacilitates workflows that are not otherwise possible. Moreover, checksare provided that ensure that electronically collected data properlyreflects true occurrences of events by corroborating automaticallycollected operational data with observational data.

Other technical effects, technical problems and corresponding technicalsolutions are set out in greater detail herein.

System Overview

Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1, a generaldiagram of a system 100 is illustrated according to various aspects ofthe present disclosure. The illustrated system 100 is a special purpose(particular) computing environment that includes a plurality of hardwareprocessing devices (designated generally by the reference 102) that arelinked together by one or more network(s) (designated generally by thereference 104).

The network(s) 104 provides communications links between the variousprocessing devices 102 and may be supported by networking components 106that interconnect the processing devices 102, including for example,routers, hubs, firewalls, network interfaces, wired or wirelesscommunications links and corresponding interconnections, cellularstations and corresponding cellular conversion technologies (e.g., toconvert between cellular and TCP/IP, etc.). Moreover, the network(s) 104may comprise connections using one or more intranets, extranets, localarea networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), wireless networks (WiFi),the Internet, including the world wide web, cellular and/or otherarrangements for enabling communication between the processing devices102, in either real time or otherwise (e.g., via time shifting, batchprocessing, etc.).

A processing device 102 can be implemented as a server, personalcomputer, laptop computer, netbook computer, purpose-driven appliance,special purpose computing device and/or other device capable ofcommunicating over the network 104. Other types of processing devices102 include for example, personal data assistant (PDA) processors, palmcomputers, cellular devices including cellular mobile telephones andsmart telephones, tablet computers, an electronic control unit (ECU), adisplay of the industrial vehicle, a multi-mode industrial managementbadge, etc.

Still further, a processing device 102 is provided on one or moreindustrial vehicles 108 such as a forklift truck, reach truck, stockpicker, automated guided vehicle, turret truck, tow tractor, riderpallet truck, walkie stacker truck, etc. In the example configurationillustrated, the industrial vehicles 108 wirelessly communicate throughone or more access points 110 to a corresponding networking component106, which serves as a connection to the network(s) 104. Alternatively,the industrial vehicles 108 can be equipped with WiFi, cellular or othersuitable technology that allows the processing device 102 on theindustrial vehicle 108 to communicate directly with a remote device(e.g., over the network(s) 104).

The illustrative system 100 also includes a processing deviceimplemented as a server 112 (e.g., a web server, file server, and/orother processing device) that supports an analysis engine 114 andcorresponding data sources (collectively identified as data sources116).

In an exemplary implementation, the data sources 116 include acollection of databases that store various types of information relatedto an operation (e.g., a warehouse, distribution center, retail store,manufacturer, etc.). However, these data sources 116 need not beco-located. In the illustrative example, the data sources 116 includedatabases that tie processes executing for the benefit of theenterprise, from multiple, different domains. In the illustratedexample, data sources 116 include an industrial vehicle informationdatabase 118 (supporting processes executing in an industrial vehicleoperation domain), an industrial management system (e.g., a warehousemanagement system (WMS)) 120 (supporting processes executing in WMSdomain that relate to movement and tracking of goods within theoperating environment), a human resources management system (HRMS) 122(supporting processes executing in an FIRMS domain), a geo-featuremanagement system 124 (supporting processes that utilizeenvironmental-based location tracking data of industrial vehicles in ageo-domain), etc. The above list is not exhaustive and is intended to beillustrative only.

Still further, the illustrative system 100 includes processing devicesimplemented as electronic badges 126. The electronic badges 126 can bemobile badges, e.g., installed on workers, vehicles, etc. Electronicbadges 126 can also be positioned on machines, fixtures, equipment,building structures, etc., as will be described in greater detailherein.

In this regard, this application incorporates by reference, U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/354,220, titled “INDIRECTELECTRONIC BADGE TRACKING”; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/354,235, titled “USE OF ELECTRONIC BADGES IN AISLE PASSING MANEUVER”;U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/354,281, titled “ELECTRONICBADGE AS A TALKING MARKER”; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/354,304, titled “ELECTRONIC BADGE TO AUTHENTICATE AND TRACKINDUSTRIAL VEHICLE OPERATOR”, all filed Jun. 24, 2016, the disclosuresof which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Here,capabilities of the badges described in the above Provisionalapplications are extended to handle observational feedback as set outmore fully herein.

In certain illustrative implementations, the industrial vehicles 108themselves can communicate directly with each other via electronic badgecommunicator technology, e.g., via a short-range direct communicationlink, thus forming a mesh network, or temporary mesh network.

One or more of the industrial vehicles 108 can also include an optionalenvironmental-based location tracking device that works with a locationtracking system schematically represented by 128, which allows positiondetermination of the industrial vehicle 108, even when operating indoorswhere a traditional global positioning system (GPS) is ineffective. Aswill be described in greater detail herein, environmental-based locationtracking can be utilized to effectively map and track the location of anindustrial vehicle 108 in a dimensionally constrained environment, e.g.,a mapped indoor portion of an industrial enterprise (e.g., a warehouse,a manufacturing plant, etc.).

The analysis engine 114 and data sources 116 provide domain-levelresources to the processing devices, including processing devices 102,industrial vehicles 108, and electronic badges 126. Moreover, the datasources 116 store data related to activities of the industrial vehicles108 and electronic badges 126, including the storage of informationregarding captured events, industrial vehicle and pedestrian encounterswith electronic badges and geo-features, combinations thereof, etc.

Industrial Vehicle

Referring to FIG. 2, one or more industrial vehicles 108 include aprocessing device 102 that is implemented as a special purpose,particular computer, (further designated herein as an informationlinking device 202) that mounts to or is otherwise integrated with theindustrial vehicle 108 (FIG. 1).

The information linking device 202 comprises the necessary circuitry toimplement wireless communication, data and information processing, andwired (and optionally wireless) communication to components of theindustrial vehicle 108, with the server 112 via access points 110, andwith electronic badges 126. As a few illustrative examples, theinformation linking device 202 includes a transceiver 204 for wirelesscommunication. Although a single transceiver 204 is illustrated forconvenience, in practice, one or more wireless communicationtechnologies may be provided. For instance, the transceiver 204communicates with a remote server, e.g., server 112 of FIG. 1, via802.11.xx across the access points 110 of FIG. 1. The transceiver 204may also optionally support other wireless communication, such ascellular, Bluetooth, infrared (IR), ultra-wide band (UWB), or any othertechnology or combination of technologies. For instance, using acellular to IP bridge the transceiver 204 can use a cellular signal tocommunicate directly with a remote server, e.g., a manufacturer serveracross a network 104 (FIG. 1).

The information linking device 202 also comprises a control module 206,having a processor coupled to memory for implementing computerinstructions, including computer-implemented processes, or aspectsthereof, as set out and described more fully herein. The control module206 communicates with the components set forth in FIG. 2 described morefully herein making the information linking device 202 a particularmachine different from a general-purpose computer. For instance, thecontrol module 206 utilizes the transceiver 204 to exchange informationwith the remote server 112 (FIG. 1) for controlling operation of theindustrial vehicle 108, for remotely storing information extracted fromthe industrial vehicle 108, etc.

The information linking device 202 further includes power enablingcircuitry 208 controlled by the control module 206 to selectively enableor disable the industrial vehicle 108 (or alternatively, to selectivelyenable or disable specific control modules or vehicle functions such ashydraulic, traction, etc.). For instance, the control module 206 cancontrol the industrial vehicle power enabling circuitry 208 to providepower to the industrial vehicle 108, to provide power to selectcomponents of the industrial vehicle 108, to provide power for selectvehicle functions, etc. via power line 210, e.g., based upon operatorlogin, detected geo-features, etc.

Still further, the information linking device 202 includes a monitoringinput output (I/O) module 212 to communicate via wired or wirelessconnection to peripheral devices attached to or otherwise mounted on theindustrial vehicle 108, such as sensors, meters, encoders, switches,etc. (collectively represented by reference numeral 214). The module 212may also be connected to other devices, e.g., third party devices 216such as RFID scanners, displays, meters or other devices. This allowsthe control module 206 to obtain and process information monitored onthe industrial vehicle 108.

The information linking device 202 is coupled to and/or communicateswith other industrial vehicle system components via a suitable vehiclenetwork bus 218. The vehicle network bus 218 is any wired or wirelessnetwork, bus or other communications capability that allows electroniccomponents of the industrial vehicle 108 to communicate with each other.As an example, the vehicle network bus 218 may comprise a controllerarea network (CAN) bus, Local Interconnect Network (LIN), time-triggereddata-bus protocol (TTP) or other suitable communication technology.

As will be described more fully herein, utilization of the vehiclenetwork bus 218 enables seamless integration of the control module 206and other components of the information linking device 202 into nativeelectronics of the industrial vehicle 108. In the example configuration,the control module 206 of the information linking device 202 connectswith, understands and is capable of communication with native vehicleelectronic components, such as traction controllers, hydrauliccontrollers, modules, devices, bus enabled sensors, displays, lights,light bars, sound generating devices, headsets, microphones, hapticdevices, etc. (collectively referred to by reference 220).

Environmental-Based Location Tracking

According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, anenvironmental-based location tracking device 222 is provided on theindustrial vehicle 108. As illustrated, the environmental-based locationtracking device 222 is connected to the vehicle electronics via thevehicle network bus 218 (e.g., CAN bus). As a result, theenvironmental-based location tracking device 222 can communicatedirectly with the control module 206, as well as other devices linked tothe vehicle network bus 218 of the corresponding industrial vehicle 108.The environmental-based location tracking device 222 enables theindustrial vehicle 108 to be spatially aware of its location within adimensionally constrained environment, e.g., a mapped portion of anindustrial facility, e.g., a warehouse, a commercial facility, amanufacturing plant, a retail facility, etc.

In the applications described more fully herein, a conventionaltechnology such as a global positioning system (GPS) is not likely to beeffective when the industrial vehicle 108 is operated indoors. However,the environmental-based location tracking device 222 can comprise alocal awareness system that utilizes markers, including fiducialmarkers, RFID, beacons, lights, or other external devices to allowspatial awareness within the industrial environment (e.g., a warehouse,a commercial facility, a manufacturing plant, a retail facility, etc.).Moreover, local awareness can be implemented by machine vision guidancesystems, e.g., using one or more cameras. The environmental-basedlocation tracking device 222 may also/alternatively use transponders andtriangulation calculations to determine position. Yet further, theenvironmental-based location tracking device 222 can use combinations ofthe above and/or other technologies to determine the current (real-time)position of the industrial vehicle 108. As such, the position of theindustrial vehicle 108 can be continuously ascertained (e.g., everysecond or less) in certain implementations. Alternatively, othersampling intervals can be derived to continuously (e.g., at discretedefined time intervals, periodic or otherwise constant and recurringtime intervals, intervals based upon interrupts, triggers or othermeasures) determine industrial vehicle position over time.

The environmental-based location tracking device 222 can also useknowledge read from inertial sensors, vehicle sensors, encoders,accelerometers, gyroscopes, etc., (e.g., via the controllers 220 acrossthe vehicle network bus 218, via sensors 214 and/or third party devices216 across the monitoring I/O 212 and vehicle network bus 218, etc.) todetermine the position of the industrial vehicle 108 within theindustrial enterprise and/or to augment or modify the positiondetermination from the location tracking device 222.

The environmental-based location tracking device 222 is aware of theabsolute position of the industrial vehicle 108 within a dimensionallylimited environment, e.g., a mapped portion of an industrial facility.By “absolute” position, it is meant that the vehicle position is knownrelative to a map. The map may be a regional area, e.g., only a portionof an indoor facility such as a warehouse. Absolute position is to bedifferentiated from relative offset position. A relative offset positioncan be a general description of an offset distance, e.g., 2 meters away,without also knowing the direction of the offset. Alternatively, therelative offset position can be a general description of a directionwithout a distance, e.g., towards the power unit of the industrialvehicle 108, without knowing the precise distance. In other examples,the relative offset position can be a precise measure of both offset anddirection, 2 meters away in direction X, Y, Z. In this situation,orientation or a standardized reference plane should be established toensure that offset position is accurately translated to absoluteposition, and vice-versa. In certain illustrative implementations, theabsolute position of the industrial vehicle may be known, butorientation may be unknown. In other implementations, orientation andabsolute position are known.

Badge Communicator

The information linking device 202 also communicates with a badgecommunicator 224. The badge communicator 224 includes a transceiver forshort range communication with suitably configured electronic badges(e.g., electronic badge 126 of FIG. 1) in the vicinity of the badgecommunicator 224, e.g., by way of non-limiting example, in the range ofabout 15-20 meters or less. The badge communicator 224 can communicateusing any proprietary or standardized communication protocol includingBluetooth (over IEEE 802.15.1), ultra-wideband (UWB, over IEEE802.15.3), ZigBee (over IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi (over IEEE 802.11), WiMax(over IEEE 802.16), etc.

In certain illustrative implementations, the electronic badges are to beworn by pedestrians, workers, industrial vehicle operators, etc.Moreover, electronic badges can be mounted to mobile equipment,industrial vehicles or other moving objects. As such, electronic badgesare also referred to herein as mobile badges when used in the context ofan electronic badge that is not anticipated to remain stationary. On theother hand, certain electronic badges may be stationary, such as wheremounted to the end of an aisle, on racking, above doorways or nearbreakrooms, or in other situations where the electronic badge is notintended to move. As such, electronic badges are also referred to hereinas fixed/stationary badges when used in the context of an electronicbadge that is anticipated to remain stationary.

In certain illustrative implementations, the badge communicator 224includes at least three antennae 226. The availability of multipleantennae allows not only signal detection, but also positioning withinthe detection region. Here, the badge communicator 224 computes positionvia time of flight calculations, phase calculations, received signalstrength calculations, time difference of arrival, trilateration,multilateration, and/or other techniques that can be used to determinethe direction of the communication with a corresponding electronic badge126 (FIG. 1). In practice, the antennae 226 can each communicate withthe badge communicator 224 across the vehicle network bus 218, thusallowing flexibility in the placement of the antennae on the industrialvehicle 108, which can include placement remote from the badgecommunicator 224 itself. For instance, each antenna 226 can be mountedon an overhead guard, power unit, work assist bar, structural component,pole, etc. Moreover, each antenna 226 can be mounted on a differentlocation/structure of the industrial vehicle.

As illustrated, the badge communicator 224 is connected to the vehicleelectronics via the vehicle network bus 218 (e.g., CAN bus). As aresult, the badge communicator 224 can communicate directly with thecontrol module 206, as well as controllers and other modules 220 of thecorresponding industrial vehicle 108. Thus, the badge communicator 224can pass information related to the detection of proximate electronicbadges 126 to the control module 206 of the information linking device202. The control module 206 of the information linking device 202 canthen process the received information related to the detection ofproximate electronic badges 126, send commands to vehicle controllersand modules 220, take action based upon a known location of theindustrial vehicle 108 via information collected from theenvironmental-based location tracking device 222, pass information backto the badge communicator 224, communicate the collected information toa remote server (e.g., server 112 of FIG. 1), take action based uponinformation received from the remote server, combinations of thereof,etc.

In yet further configurations, an electronic badge 126 (or equivalentfunctions thereof) can be added to the industrial vehicle, integratedinto the badge communicator 224, etc. This allows the industrial vehicle108 to broadcast an ID to other badge communicators nearby, and toinitiate communications through the local communications capabilities ofthe badge communicator 224.

Example Electronic Badge

Referring to FIG. 3, a multi-mode electronic badge 302 is illustratedaccording to aspects of the present disclosure. The electronic badge 302can be utilized to implement the badge 126 set out more fully herein. Inpractical implementations, the electronic badge 126 may be a standaloneelectronic badge, or an electronic badge can be implemented usingmultiple components that mate together to form part of a system (e.g., acase/housing having certain electronics therein can be used to augmentthe functions and hardware of a portable electronic device, as describedbelow.

The electronic badge 302 includes a controller (MCU/MPU) 304 having aprocessor coupled to memory 306. The memory 306 stores program code thatcauses the badge 302 to communicate with other badges 302, correspondingbadge communicators 224 (FIG. 2), the server 112 (FIG. 1), combinationsthereon, etc., as described more fully herein. The processor of thecontroller 304 also executes code in the memory 306 to read sensor data,to interact with input/output, etc. In this regard, the memory 306further stores sensor data at least until such data is communicated outfor storage, e.g., by server 112 (FIG. 1). Further, the memory 306 maystore various programs and applications that instruct the processor toperform certain functions, as described in greater detail herein.

The badge 302 also includes a battery 308 to power the badge 302. Inthis regard, the schematic representation of the battery 308 is intendedto include a battery, and/or a battery along with battery managementcircuitry, e.g., to conserve power, and perform other battery managementfunctions.

The badge 302 also includes at least one wireless transceiver coupled tothe controller 304 for wireless communication. At least one wirelesstransceiver can be compatible with the badge communicator 224 (FIG. 2)on the industrial vehicle 108. For instance, for clarity of discussion,the illustrated badge 302 includes a first transceiver 310 (e.g., anultra-wide band transceiver) for wireless communication across atemporary communication network (e.g., a personal-area network).Further, the illustrated badge 302 includes a second transceiver 312(e.g., a Bluetooth transceiver) to communicate over a secondcommunication network (e.g., a personal-area network). A thirdtransceiver 314 (e.g., a wireless fidelity (WiFi) transceiver) isprovided for wireless communication over a wireless local-area network,and a fourth transceiver 316 (e.g., a cellular transceiver) is providedfor communication over a cellular network. In practice, a badge 302 caninclude any combination of transceivers identified above and/ortransceivers that operate using alternative schemes. In certain exampleembodiments, the first transceiver 310 and the second transceiver 312form relatively short range (e.g., 30 meters or less in certainimplementations) wireless communications with other electronic badgeswithin range of communication.

In some instances, the two networks (e.g., created using UWB andBluetooth) may be used in conjunction to create a zone around theelectronic badge. For example, the first personal-area network (e.g.,UWB) may have a larger operational radius than the second personal-areanetwork (e.g., Bluetooth). Thus, the zone may include an outer perimeterbased on the first personal-area network and an inner perimeter based onthe second personal-area network.

Moreover, the badge 302 includes input and/or output devices, e.g., aspeaker 318, a microphone 320, a display driver 322, other I/O devices324 (e.g., tactile device, haptic output, camera, etc.), informationfeedback device 326, etc., or combinations thereof. As a furtherexample, an input device can comprise a device analogous to theenvironmental-based location tracking device (222, FIG. 2).

In an illustrative example, the information feedback device 326 isimplemented as an LED (light-emitting diode) indicator 326, whichilluminates to communicate with the associated user. For instance, thedevice can illuminate when the pedestrian is in a predefined zone, inproximity to another badge or badge communicator 224 on an industrialvehicle 108, or to indicate that a message/feedback is available for theuser. As another example, an LED indicator may indicate whenobservational feedback has been sent or received, as explained ingreater detail below.

The example badge 302 also includes at least one inertial sensor coupledto the controller 304. For instance, as illustrated, there are threeinertial sensors, including an accelerometer (e.g., three-axisaccelerometer) 328, a magnetometer 330, and a gyroscope (e.g., athree-axis gyroscope) 332. The accelerometer 328 measures physicalacceleration. Comparatively, the gyroscope 332 measures angularvelocity. The magnetometer 330 acts as a compass, which is useful todetermine orientation. In practice, a badge 302 need not include allthree inertial measurement technologies.

Yet further, additional sensors can be coupled to the badge 302. Forsake of illustration, the badge 302 also includes a heart rate sensor334 coupled to the controller 304 to capture the measured heart rate ofthe individual wearing the badge 302. Moreover, an optional temperaturesensor 336 can be coupled to the controller 304 to capture the measuredbody temperature of the individual wearing the badge 302 or to capturean ambient temperature. In practice, other sensor technologies 338(e.g., barometer, humidity sensor, pedometer, etc.) can also and/oralternatively be integrated into the badge. As such, the electronicbadge 126, 302 can be used as a physical tracker, counting the number ofsteps that the vehicle operator, order picker, or other industrialworker tasks. The electronic badge 126, 302 can also detect the numberof times the worker bends, climbs stairs, etc. Further, the mobileelectronic badge 126, 302 can also keep track of the time while theoperator is off the industrial vehicle 108, e.g., time walking, carryingloads, etc.

In certain implementations, the electronic badge 126, 302 can be ahand-held mobile device, such as a smart phone, tablet, palm computer,purpose-designed electronic device, etc. For instance, a badge 302 canbe implemented as a dedicated badge 302 as described herein. As anotherexample, a badge 302 can be implemented using (in whole or in part) asmartphone. A smartphone provides a convenient structure to implement abadge because the typical smartphone already includes a display,speaker, accelerometer, processor, compass, etc. Moreover, most smartphones include or can be equipped with Bluetooth, UWB, WiFi, cellular,and other radio technologies. Yet further, smart phones facilitate richintegration by adding GPS, direct communication with a server. Thus, theelectronic badge 302 may have a housing with a form factor of a mobiledevice.

In other implementations, the electronic badge 126, 302 can be ahand-held portable device, such as a smart phone, tablet, palm computer,etc., used in conjunction with a case, as described in greater detailherein. In implementations with a case, some of the functionalitydescribed above may be implemented in the case (e.g., ultra-wide bandtransceiver, improved speakers, improved microphone, additional battery,additional storage, etc., to augment the capability of a conventionalsmartphone to define the badge.

Applications

Referring now to FIG. 4, as described above the memory 306 of theelectronic badge includes program code 402 for instructing the processorto perform various functions and a storage space 404 for storing otherdata (e.g., sensor data, industrial vehicle information, etc.). Forexample, the storage space 404 may be used to store an identification ofa user associated with the electronic badge, event records, logs, etc.Example applications that can be stored in the program code aredescribed below.

A first (optional) program is an industrial operations application 406that is used to determine whether the electronic badge is communicablycoupled to an industrial vehicle 108 (FIG. 1) via a transceiver of theelectronic badge or is worn by a pedestrian. In an exampleimplementation, the badge will initially function in a first modeassociated with a pedestrian (i.e., pedestrian mode). For example, whilein the pedestrian mode, the electronic badge may count steps taken bythe user, count a number of times the user bends over to lift something,determine whether the user properly lifted (e.g., with knees, not back),give proper procedure for tasks that the user must take, etc. If it isdetermined that the electronic badge is coupled to an industrialvehicle, then the badge will function in a second mode associated withthe industrial vehicle (i.e., industrial vehicle mode) to displayvehicle gauges, etc. Thus, a single device (i.e., the multi-modeelectronic badges described herein) may be used as a pedestrian badgeand an industrial vehicle badge/display.

A second (optional) program may be an observation and feedbackapplication 408 that determines if the user sends or generatesobservational feedback to a second electronic badge associated withanother user as described more fully herein with regard to FIGS. 5-9.

A third (optional) program is a task director application 410 thatdetermines a task for the user, and outputs the task, e.g., displays thetask on the display of the electronic badge. For example, the electronicbadge may receive a schedule of tasks for the user from the server 112(FIG. 1). As another example, the electronic badge may determine a taskfor the user based on an environmental-based location tracking system orother task driven input.

A fourth (optional) program is an event tracker application 412 thatmanages events. Events are described more fully herein with reference toFIGS. 5-9.

A fifth (optional) application is a micro-learning application 414 thatdetermines context sensitive help based on received observationalfeedback, an outcome from the event tracker application, a taskassociated with the user, combinations thereof, etc. Microlearning canbe used to provide training, on-demand information, and contextsensitive help related to specific operational issues.

A sixth (optional) program is a gamification application 416 thatprovides games available to the user. The games provided may be usefulto short-term entertainment and can optionally be related to orotherwise linked to microlearning, e.g., the context sensitive help.Further, the user's access to the games may be dependent on otherfactors such as the user's participation in observable feedback (e.g.,did the user send proper observable feedback, did the user receivepositive observable feedback, etc.). In practical applications,gamification is time-limited.

A seventh (optional) program is a simulator application 418 that can beused for instance, by technicians for virtual reality and augmentedreality training simulation.

An eighth (optional) program is a browser application 420 that executesan HTTP browser on the electronic badge, e.g., to browse a localintranet, extranet, interne, etc.

A ninth (optional) program is a social media application 422. The socialmedia application allows the user to interact with work peers, and tooptionally access and share information with co-workers, etc.

Event Types and Pinpoints

As used herein, “event types” are used to characterize differentcategories of events to which observations can be applied. In thisregard, event types can cover any type of information of interest to anenterprise. Event types can be fixed or cycled to keep the subject ofinterest constantly refreshing in an environment.

Pinpoints are associated with event types. In general, a pinpointspecifies an observable characteristic associated with a given eventtype. In general, there can be one or more pinpoints per event type. Inpractical applications, there can be multiple pinpoints per event type.In an illustrative example, pinpoints are directed to queries that canbe answered in full or in part, based upon observational feedback.

In certain implementations pinpoints can be recycled, reordered,dynamically changed, etc. based upon operational factors. For instance,once a pinpoint has been observed in the positive for a predeterminedamount of time, that pinpoint can be retired, modified, or otherwisetweaked. Moreover, pinpoints can be dynamically added so thatobservational opportunities periodically change.

In this regard, event types are useful to categorize pinpoints to reducethe number of optional pinpoints for a given scenario. For example, anevent type may comprise a welding manufacturing cell. In this regard,all relevant pinpoints pertain to the job at hand, e.g., weldingoperations, cleaning operations, environment procedure, etc. Anotherexample event type is end-of-aisle policy. Here, pinpoints can comprise“stop” and “sound horn” for an industrial vehicle operator, but “stop”and “make eye contact with driver” if the user is a pedestrian. Numerousother examples can be implemented depending upon the specificimplementation details.

Marker Badge vs. Mobile Badge

As noted above, badges can be mobile, e.g., worn by workers, installedon vehicles, etc. Badges can also be fixed/stationary. Such badges canbe used to implement geo-based features or capabilities. For instance, amarker badge can be used to convey to a mobile badge coming into rangewith the marker badge, specific, geo-based information. In one example,one or more pinpoints are dynamically changed when the marker badge isencountered. Moreover, detection of the marker badge can cause differentpinpoints based upon the role of the user of a mobile badge. Forinstance, a pedestrian at an intersection can receive differentpinpoints than an industrial vehicle operator.

In yet further examples, a marker badge can include Bluetooth and UWB,each utilized for the same or different purposes. In an exampleimplementation, Bluetooth-based marker badges 126 are used for apedestrian version of geo-based tracking. Here, the Bluetooth in themarker badges are set up for relatively shorter-range due to the factthat pedestrians are on foot and generally moving more slowly than avehicle. UWB is used to create geo-zones for industrial vehicles.

As yet further examples, marker badges 126 set up as Bluetooth nodes canbe physically spaced closer together compared to UWB nodes due to energyconstraints, cost, a combination thereof, etc.

Observational-Based Event Recording

Referring to FIG. 5, in certain environments, such as warehouses,manufacturing facilities, retail stores, construction sites, etc.,observation and feedback can be deployed to generate event records thatcannot otherwise be obtained. These improved event records can in turn,be used to drive automated and electronic driven actions that improvesystem performance. For instance, the observation and feedbackapplication 408 (FIG. 4) can be triggered to execute the below examplesof observation and feedback.

By way of illustration and not by way of limitation, an environment 500is illustrated in which a first worker 502 is in proximity to a secondworker 504. The second worker 504 is illustrated as being stationed at awork area 506 where the second worker is engaged in performing a seriesof work-related tasks. Moreover, the first worker 502 is wearing a firstbadge 126A, and the second worker 504 is wearing a second badge 126B. Inthis regard, the electronic badges 126A, 126B can have any one or moreof the features set out and described more fully herein, especially withreference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4.

In a practical application, the first badge 126A and the second badge126B form a temporary, wireless communication when the two devices arewithin range of one another. As described more fully herein, thepersonal-area network is used for relatively limited (i.e., short-range)communication. For instance, if implemented using Bluetoothtransceivers, it is possible to achieve a range of up to 100 meters ormore. However, since the interaction is based upon observationalfeedback (i.e., observations that a user of the first badge 126A makeswithin an environment, e.g., a work environment), the Bluetoothcapability may be limited to a relatively short range, e.g., 0.5 metersto 20 meters (limited by a reasonable range for making the observation).As a further example, Bluetooth can be operated in a low power modelimiting the range up to approximately 10 meters.

As yet another example, if the transceivers forming the personal-areanetwork are ultra-wide band, the range can extend up to 50 meters.However, a more practical limit may be up to approximately 10 meters.Such distance/range limitations not only provide conditions suitable forobservational feedback to be recorded, but also improve the spatialcapacity of the transceivers and/or conserve power. Moreover, the rangeof the first badge 126A and the second badge 126B can be different,e.g., based upon the role of each user. Moreover, the ideal range ofeach transceiver can be set based upon a maximum desired range forobservational feedback.

In yet a further example, a combination of Bluetooth and ultra-wide bandcan be used to form the personal-area network. For instance, ultra-wideband transceivers in each badge 126A, 126B can define an outer perimeterof the personal-area network, whereas Bluetooth can be used for ashorter range inner perimeter.

Observation

In a first example implementation, assume that the second worker 504 isperforming a work task that requires a particular action, e.g., wear ahard hat while in work area 506, and that the first badge 126A and thesecond badge 126B have formed a personal-area network, thus designatingan encounter.

As will be described more fully herein, observational feedback isoptional, e.g., observational feedback can be performed when convenient,when a particular situation deems feedback necessary or helpful, etc.Sometimes, due to the nature of workflow, a worker does not have time toprovide observational feedback. Other times, a worker may deemobservational feedback unnecessary e.g., when such feedback may beconsidered overly redundant, etc. Such scenarios are within the spiritof the present disclosure.

In general, a worker provides observational feedback via a correspondingbadge, which can be worn by the worker, e.g., on a vest, in a pocket, oris otherwise on the person. Upon presenting observational feedback, thebadge converts the feedback into an electronic message that is processedinto an event.

By way of example, assume the first worker 502 provides observationalfeedback with regard to the second worker 504. More particularly, thefirst badge 126A receives an electronic message characterizing anobservation made by the worker 502 assigned to the first badge 126Arelative to a worker 504 assigned to the second badge 126B. This can beaccomplished in several different ways.

Assume that the first worker 502 can observe that the second worker 504is wearing a hard hat through visual observation. In a first example,the first worker 502 speaks a phrase into a microphone input of thefirst badge 126A, e.g., “wearing hard hat”. Alternatively, the worker502 can interact with the badge 126A by interacting with other inputoptions, e.g., keypad, touchscreen display, etc., as set out more fullyherein. The electronic message corresponding to the spoken phrase isconverted to a pinpoint response that is associated with a pinpoint.

As an alternative, the badge 126A can already have one or more pinpointsavailable. Here, the badge 126A can trigger one or more messages to thefirst user, e.g., via the speaker 318 (FIG. 3), tactile buzzer 324 (FIG.3), information lights 326 (FIG. 3), display, etc. For instance, thebadge 126A can convey a message via the speaker 318 such as, “Is thesecond user wearing a hard hat”? In this example, the user observationalfeedback can be a Yes/No answer, a statement, e.g., “user is wearing ahard hat”, or phrase, e.g., “hard hat”. In still another example, theencounter can trigger a display on the first badge 126A to list out oneor more pinpoints. The first worker 502 can then interact with thedisplay, e.g., via touch on a touchscreen, via a stylus, keypad, etc.,to enter one or more of the pinpoints.

In yet another example, the first worker 502 can create a “virtualscorecard” by interacting with the first badge 126A by identifying anevent type, e.g., “location: packing cell 1”, and then dynamicallyassign one or more pinpoints that characterize observations about thesecond worker 504 at in the circumstance. The first worker 502 can alsoadd annotations, comments, instructions, requests, etc., to the virtualscorecard.

In an example process, an electronic message characterizing an observedevent is converted into a pinpoint response, which can optionally beassociated with the second badge 126B. This can occur on the badge 126A,on the server 112, a combination thereof, etc. Again, this can occur indifferent ways. In a first example, the system may not have obtained apinpoint prior to receiving the electronic message. As such, the systemsearches a database to obtain a pinpoint that is associated with thepinpoint response. Moreover, the system can convert the pinpointresponse into a new pinpoint if a pinpoint cannot be found that links tothe pinpoint response. Alternatively, where one or more pinpoints wereextracted before the observational feedback was obtained, the system canassociate the pinpoint response to the associated pinpoint.

The pinpoint and pinpoint response can also be linked to a correspondingevent type. For instance, a work area event type in this example.

Based upon the observational feedback provided, an event record isgenerated. The event record includes an identification of the event typeand the pinpoint response.

The generated event can include other information, such as the pinpoint,timestamp, scorecard, etc. Yet further, an ID associated with the userof the first badge 126A, the user of the second badge 126B, or both canbe identified. Still further, the user of the first badge 126A, the userof the second badge 126B, or both can remain anonymous. In this regard,general information can be collected without identifying specificparties involved.

The worker 502 can also optionally utilize other features and/orcapabilities of the badge 126A to collect information that forms part ofthe event record. For instance, where the badge 126A includes a camera,an image or short video can be captured, which can be attached to theevent record. Where the badge 126A includes a microphone, an audio clipcan be collected, etc. Moreover, data from a sensor, e.g., heartratemonitor, temperature sensor, pedometer, etc., can be added to the eventrecord. Yet further, other discoverable information can be added to theevent record, including the time, the date, data accessible by theserver 112, data accessible by the first badge 126A, data accessible bythe second badge 126B, etc.

Yet further, in an example implementation, the second badge 126Bprovides information that is added to the event record. For instance,where the second badge 126B includes sensors, such data can be collectedand added to the event record. Moreover, data regarding the secondworker 504, the second badge 126B, a combination thereof, etc. can beadded to the event record. For instance, information characterizing anoperating shift, the number of hours worked, the number of steps taken,work tasks completed, packages lifted, etc., which can be measured andrecorded by the badge 126B (or badge 126B working in cooperation withthe server 112) can be included in the event record. As such, data canbe collected to provide context surrounding the observation recorded bythe first worker 502.

In this scenario, it is also possible for the second worker 504 toprovide an observation with regard to the first worker 502. That is, inan example implementation, any worker having a badge 126 can bepresented with opportunities to provide observation, feedback, or bothupon an encounter.

Feedback

The above-system can also be utilized to provide feedback, e.g., inresponse to an observation, or as a positive reinforcement message. Inan example implementation, feedback can be generated by the first badge126A, the server 112, etc., based upon the recorded observation to anassociated pinpoint. In yet further example implementations, the firstworker 502 interacts with the badge 126A, e.g., via voice command,interaction with a touch display, keypad, etc., to generate feedbackintended for the second worker 504. The feedback can also include animage, video, sensor data or other discoverable information analogous tothat described above. This feedback can be in addition to, or in lieu ofrecording an observation.

The feedback is delivered to the second badge 126B, which can decidewhen and how to deliver the feedback to the second worker. For instance,the second badge 126B may inform the second worker 504 of the feedbackby flashing an information device 326 such as a light (FIG. 3). Here thelight may be informative (e.g., you received feedback). Alternatively,the color, flash pattern, brightness or other information can be used toindicate whether the feedback is positive or negative. Moreover, atactile device, e.g., 324 (FIG. 3) can inform the second worker 504 offeedback. Yet further, a speaker 318 (FIG. 3) can play a tone orannounce that feedback has been given. The speaker can play back thefeedback if in the form of a recorded message. Yet further, the secondworker 504 can observe on a display screen, the pinpoint associated withthe feedback. Here, the second worker 504 can view the feedbacks in realtime, or queue up feedback information to review later, e.g., at the endof a shift.

In further implementations, the system can generate feedback based uponeither the observation, or a history. For instance, based upon arecorded observation, the server 112 can check a historical profile ofthe second worker 504. If the recorded observation is in agreement withworker trends of appropriate environment behavior, the system may notneed to generate any further feedback. On the other hand, if theobservation warrants, e.g., a trend of improper behavior is noted, thena feedback can be generated with an indication to the second worker 504to engage a micro learning session via a micro learning application 414(FIG. 4). The micro learning application 414 (FIG. 4) can play back aninstructional video, provide text, or other information that allows thesecond worker 504 to gain knowledge with regard to a context specificissue.

In certain implementations, the second worker 504 can annotateinformation that can be attached to the event record. For instance, thesecond badge 126B can also optionally be used to capture an image,video, sensor data, discoverable data, etc., from the perspective of thesecond worker 504. Yet further, the second worker 504 may annotate acomment using a keypad, touchscreen, etc.

Merging Observation/Feedback with Event Records

In a second example implementation, assume that the second worker 504 isperforming a work task that requires a particular action, e.g., wear ahard hat while packaging a particular item at work area 506 and that thefirst badge 126A and the second badge 126B have formed a personal-areanetwork, thus designating an encounter.

A sensor 508 associated with a work surface 510 of the work area 506detects the presence of the particular item 512 and generates anoperational event record therefrom, e.g., which is sent to the server114. The event record generated strictly from data collected from thesensor 508 can include information such as the time, date, identifiercode of the item 512, an operator identification code of the worker 504,other information, combinations thereof, etc. However, theelectronically detected event record cannot tell whether the worker 504is wearing a hard hat. On the other hand, the worker 502 can observewhether the worker 504 is wearing a hard hat and provideobservation-based feedback. Thus, observational-feedback is used toaugment, modify, enhance, complete, aggregate with, etc., theoperational generated event record. Here, the electronic badge of thefirst worker 502 and the electronic badge of the second worker 504 eachhave a unique identifier. At least the identifier of the electronicbadge associated with the second worker 504 can be incorporated into anobservation event record. The identifier of the electronic badge of thefirst worker 502 may be recorded into the event record, or theidentifier of the electronic badge of the first worker 502 may beomitted thus providing an anonymous event record.

As yet a further example, the system identifies an event type. In thisexample, the event type may comprise “handling item at work area”. Theevent type can be identified based upon an identification of the firstworker 502, based upon the identification of the second worker 504,based upon discoverable data, e.g., time, date, location, task assignedvia the WMS, LMS, etc., Health and Wellness system, based upon detectingthe sensor 508 or event record generated by the sensor 508, combinationsthereof, etc.

The system also identifies a pinpoint that is linked to the identifiedevent type. In this example, an electronic pinpoint is “observe wearinghard hat”. In practice, there can be one or more available orpossible/optional electronic pinpoints for each event type.

In a first example implementation, the system detects that the secondworker is engaged in the handling the item 512 via a messagecommunicated from the server 114 to the first badge 126A. Notably, thisexample demonstrates that the first badge 126A is capable ofcommunication over Wi-Fi with the server 112, e.g., across a local areanetwork independently of communication with the second badge 126B viathe personal-area network. In another example implementation, the firstbadge 126A identifies the event type based upon receiving an identifierfrom the second badge 126B via the personal-area network.

Observation-based feedback can be collected using one or more of thetechniques described above. In this regard, the observation-basedfeedback can be used to generate its own event record, or theobservation-based feedback can be merged into the operational eventrecord generated responsive to the sensor 508.

Geo-Driven Pinpoints

In this example, the first badge 126A becomes aware of relevantpinpoints, e.g., based upon detecting the marker badge 126C,environmental based location tracking, or other suitable geo-locationbased techniques. Here, the marker badge 126C can send the relevantpinpoints directly to the first badge 126A. In another example, themarker badge 126C can send the relevant pinpoints to the second badge126B, which can forward the pinpoints to the first badge 126A. Yetfurther, the first badge 126A can send an identifier of marker badge126C to the server 112 to retrieve the relevant pinpoints.

Thus, by using geo-based badges 126, environmental based locationtracking, or other suitable geo-location based techniques, the badges126 are constantly dynamically updated with relevant pinpoints.

Geo-Driven Event Records

In yet another example implementation, geo-based information is used todetermine the event type, one or more pinpoints, or a combinationthereof. Here, geo-based information can be obtained from environmentalbased location tracking, a detected marker badge 126C, or other suitablegeo-location based technique. For instance, a system analogous to theenvironmental based location tracking 222 described with reference tothe industrial vehicle system (FIG. 2) can be integrated into the badges126. As yet another example, geo-based information can be obtained bytriangulation, e.g., based upon using a Wi-Fi radio 314 (FIG. 3). Yetfurther, as described more fully herein, badges 126 can be used asmarker badges, e.g., to mark geo-locations. As such, the first badge126A can use a Bluetooth radio 312 (FIG. 3), an UWB radio 310 (FIG. 3),combination thereof, etc., to become aware of a geo-location throughcommunication with one or more marker badges 126.

In an example implementation, the first badge 126A detects that thesecond device 126B is in work area 506 via another badge, e.g., optionalfixed marker badge 126C, which is located within the work area 506.Here, the fixed marker badge 126C functions to designate a geo-zone.

In this regard, observation-based feedback can be collected using one ormore of the techniques described above. Also, the observation-basedfeedback can be used to generate its own event record, or theobservation-based feedback can be merged into an operational eventrecord generated responsive to the sensor 508.

Observational Feedback Restriction/Verification

As noted above, geo-driven marker badges 126 can provide relevantpinpoints (measures) for observations and feedback in specificgeographic areas so the pinpoints needed on a mobile badge 126 arealways updated and relevant for the area the user is in. However, in afurther embodiment, geo-based marker badges are used to verify that theobservation is appropriate in the context of the encounter. Forinstance, a limited range Bluetooth marker badge can make it impossibleor at least highly unlikely for an individual to record an observationor give feedback on a mobile badge 126 unless the user was actually insight of the person they were doing the observation or providingfeedback on.

In further example implementations, operational event records, e.g.,like those generated by the sensor 508 in the examples above, can beused to judge whether the observation was proper, e.g., by correlatingobservational data to operational data as a form of verification.

In alternative implementations, other badge features can be used toverify or restrict observation and/or feedback. For instance, theillustrated badge 126 (FIG. 3) includes a magnetometer 330 (FIG. 3)and/or gyroscope 332 (FIG. 3) to determine the orientation of the firstworker 502. This orientation information is compared to the relativeposition of the second worker 504 to judge whether the first worker 502is in an appropriate position and orientation to provide the observationand/or feedback. The system can also use an accelerometer 328 and/oroptional sensor 338 (FIG. 3) such as a light sensor, barometer,thermometer, air humidity sensor, combination thereof, etc., todetermine whether the recorded observation and/or feedback isappropriate.

Observation/Feedback is Optional

Once a temporary, wireless personal-area network is established betweenthe first badge 126A and the second badge 126B, observational feedbackcan be generated and recorded. However, there may not be a strictrequirement that observation-based feedback is provided. Rather, once atemporary personal-area network wireless communication connection ismade between the first badge 126A and the second badge 126B, anencounter is designated, which creates an opportunity forobservation-based feedback to be generated and collected into eventrecords. Such is useful in situations where mandatory observation-basedfeedback can place too much burden on the users, which can interruptworkflow. Rather, observation-based feedback may be given whenconvenient to either user. In this regard, participation rates in therange of 10%-30% of encounters can still generate effective results.

Dynamic Throttling of Observation/Feedback

In certain implementations, it may be desirable to mask encounters sothat no opportunity for observation/feedback is provided. In otherapplications, the system may require one or more individuals to provideobservation and/or feedback according to a prescribed interval, e.g.,once a shift, three times a week, etc. Yet further, the system candynamically throttle when to prompt (or require) users to provideobservation and/or feedback. For instance, more opportunities forobservation and/or feedback may be generated at the start of a shift,before and after break times, towards the end of a shift, etc. In thisregard, indicator lights or other information mechanisms on the badgescan be used in certain example implementations, to inform users whenthere is an opportunity to provide observational feedback.

In yet further aspects, the workers histories can be used to determinehow frequently observational feedback is required. For instance, in anexample implementation, the system uses a threshold, scale or otherfeature to determine a frequency to collect observational feedback.Similar approaches can be employed based upon the detected event type.For instance, different tasks, environment locations, etc., can triggera variable frequency of opportunity (or requirement) for observation.

Predictive Observation/Feedback

In certain implementations, the system can use predictive analytics toknow when to queue opportunities to provide feedback. For instance, withreference to the above-examples, the system can use geo-information,e.g., from the marker badge 126C, from an environmental based locationtracking system, etc., to predict where a worker will be in the shortterm, and automatically queue up relevant pinpoints and/or prompt theworker to provide opportunity for observation and/or feedback. Thesystem can also use such predictions to decide to suppress opportunitiesfor observation and/or feedback.

Yet further, in example implementations, the first badge 126A canutilize discoverable information, e.g., by interacting with the server112 in order to predict activities of the associated worker, in order todecide whether to present opportunity for observation and feedback, tosuppress opportunities for observation and feedback, to require the userto provide observation and feedback, etc. By way of illustration,through interaction with the industrial operation application 406, thebadge 126 can become aware of a context or role of the associatedworker. Likewise, by interacting with the task director application 410,the system knows what tasks are assigned and optionally queued up forthe worker. As such, the system can “look ahead” of the worker topredict relevant pinpoints, and to determine if and when to presentopportunities for observation and feedback as described more fullyherein. Moreover, once a temporary wireless personal-area network iscreated, a first badge can interact with its task director application410 to know what tasks are assigned and optionally queued up for aworker associated with the connected badge. As such, the system can“look ahead” of the nearby worker to predict relevant pinpoints forobservation, and to determine if and when to present opportunities forobservation and feedback as described more fully herein.

Pedestrian/Vehicle Interaction

Aspects of the present disclosure are not limited topedestrian/pedestrian encounters. For instance, with reference to FIG.6, a worker 602 is temporarily in short range of an operator 604 of anindustrial vehicle.

Assume in this example, that the industrial vehicle is in a designatedgeo-zone, e.g., a stop zone 606. A warehouse policy indicates that theindustrial vehicle operator must stop, sound the horn, and look bothways before advancing the industrial vehicle into the intersection.

The industrial vehicle, e.g., via the information linking device 202(FIG. 2) utilizes its data logging ability to read control module dataover the vehicle network bus 218. The control module 206 detects thatthe industrial vehicle is in a geo-zone via the environmental basedlocation tracking system 222. In response thereto, the control module206 records that the industrial vehicle stopped and sounded the horn.However, the control module 206 cannot confirm that the vehicle operatorlooked both ways before entering the intersection.

However, the badge communicator 224 (FIG. 2) on the industrial vehicleand the badge 126A form a temporary network. Here, the first worker 602observes that the industrial vehicle operator did look both ways and inresponse thereto, the first worker 602 generates observational feedback.As such, an event record is generated indicating that the vehicleoperator looked both ways, e.g., using any of the techniques set outmore fully herein, e.g., with regard to FIG. 5.

As another example situation, assume that the worker 602 is under anobligation under the rules of the warehouse to make eye contact with theindustrial vehicle operator before the industrial vehicle enters theintersection. Here, the industrial vehicle operator 604 can generate anobservation and/or feedback with regard to the first worker 602.

The industrial vehicle then drives through the intersection breaking therange of the badge 126A of the first worker, thus terminating thetemporary network.

Response

Based upon providing feedback, workflows can be automatically triggered,e.g., to initiate automated electronic processes, to send messages,instructions, positive reinforcements, to trigger training, thegeneration of reports, scorecards, comparisons, etc. The observationdata can also be used to modify the performance of industrial vehicles,machines, and other electronics associated with an electronic badge. Forinstance, return to the above-example of a forklift operator entering anintersection. Assume that the pedestrian enters an observation that theforklift operator did not look both ways before driving through the endof the aisle. Here, the warehouse operating procedure was not followed.As such, the forklift truck may display a message for the operator. Asanother example, the performance of the forklift itself may be augmentede.g., performance tuned to modify the vehicle performance based uponvehicle operator score. Likewise, demonstrating correct/positiveobservations can result in performance tuning the forklift up,increasing vehicle capability based upon an improved operatorscore/skill level.

Example Algorithms for Observation and Feedback

FIG. 7-FIG. 9 illustrate non-limiting examples of algorithms forcarrying out aspects of the present disclosure. Each disclosed algorithmcan be implemented as a computer-implemented process. In this regard,the computer-implemented process can be implemented by a processorcoupled to memory that stores instructions that when read out andexecuted by the processor, implements relevant aspects of thecomputer-implemented process. For instance, the computer implementedprocess can be carried out by the server 112, one or more badges 126(e.g., two or more badges 126 that form a personal-area network), by aprocessing device 102, by a combination thereof, etc. Processing may becarried out by one of the above-described processing devices entirely,or the processing can be distributed across one or more processingdevices. The algorithm may be carried out by the server 112 in a firstembodiment, but on a mobile badge 126 in a different embodiment, e.g.,depending upon the processing capability, network bandwidth, number oftransceivers, etc.

In this regard, the algorithms of FIGS. 7-9 can be used to carry out thetechniques, processes, functions, capabilities, etc., in anycombination, described in greater detail herein with regard to FIGS.5-6, using any combination of the structures, configurations, systems,capabilities, etc., described with reference to FIGS. 1-4. Accordingly,any combination of features described throughout this document can beused with any algorithm in any desired combination unless contradictory.

Referring to FIG. 7, a computer-implemented process 700 of trackingevents is illustrated. The computer-implemented process 700 comprisesdetecting, at 702, that a first badge is within range of a second badgeand forming a temporary wireless personal-area network therebetween,thus designating an encounter. For instance, the process can receive amessage from at least one of the first badge or the second badgeindicating that the first badge and the second badge have established atemporary, short range, wireless connection. As described more fullyherein, the received message can be based upon a personal wirelessnetwork connection established via at least one of Bluetooth orultra-wide band. In an alternative example, the message can be receivedwherein the temporary, short range, wireless connection is comprised ofa first perimeter of a zone implemented by ultra-wide band and a secondzone implemented by Bluetooth.

The computer-implemented process 700 also comprises performing, at 704,by processor executing instructions read out from memory, an eventlogging transaction responsive to the encounter. The event loggingtransaction is carried out by receiving, at 706, from the first badge,an electronic message characterizing an observation made by the user ofthe first badge relative to a user of the second badge. By way ofexample, the electronic message characterizing the observation cancomprise receiving the electronic message which was translated from avoice command issued by the user of the first badge.

The event logging transaction is further carried out by converting, at708, the electronic message received from the first badge into apinpoint response, and generating, at 710, an event record comprising anidentification of an event type, and the pinpoint response.

The computer-implemented process 700 can also further comprisecommunicating an instruction to the first badge to prompt to a user ofthe first badge with a message conveying an opportunity to provideobservational feedback and receiving, from the first badge, via input ofthe user of the first badge, an electronic acknowledgement that a userof the second badge has engaged in an occurrence of an observable event.

The computer-implemented process 700 can also comprise identifying anevent type associated with an observable event carried out by the userof the second badge, which is observable by the user of the first badge.Here, the computer-implemented process further comprises identifying anelectronic pinpoint that is linked to the identified event type (wherethe identified pinpoint specifies an observable characteristicassociated with the event type), and communicating an instruction to thefirst badge to prompt to a user of the first badge with a messageconveying the electronic pinpoint. In this implementation, receiving,from the first badge, an electronic message characterizing anobservation made by the user of the first badge relative to a user ofthe second badge comprises receiving a confirmation as to whether anaction associated with the identified pinpoint was observed. Also,converting the electronic message received from the first badge into apinpoint response associated with the second badge comprises associatingthe pinpoint response with the identified pinpoint.

The computer-implemented process 700 can also further compriseretrieving a pinpoint associated with the pinpoint response that wasconverted from the first message, and retrieving an event typeassociated with the retrieved pinpoint.

The computer-implemented process 700 can also optionally comprisereceiving position information with respect to at least one of the firstbadge and the second badge, and utilizing the received positioninformation to determine at least one of the event type and at least onepinpoint. For instance, receiving position information with respect toat least one of the first badge and the second badge can comprisereceiving coordinates of at least one of the first badge and the secondbadge from an environmental based location tracking system. As anotherexample, receiving position information with respect to at least one ofthe first badge and the second badge can comprise identifying theposition of the second badge relative to the position of the firstbadge. As yet another example, receiving position information withrespect to at least one of the first badge and the second badge cancomprise identifying the position of the first badge, the second badge,or both based upon detection within the range of a third badge fixedlyinstalled in a known location within the environment. The third badgecan comprise a Bluetooth, ultra-wide band, or both, transceiver.Moreover, the computer-implemented process 700 can comprise obtaining atleast one pinpoint based upon the third badge.

In certain example implementations, the computer-implemented process 700further comprises using a reading from a direction or orientation sensorof the first badge to verify that the user of the first badge canproperly observe the observation characterized in the electronicmessage. If it is judged that the user could not have observed theevent, then the event record can be rejected (at the electronic badgeitself, or at a server where the data is collected), or the electronicbadge may refuse to input the pinpoint response entered by thecorresponding user.

In yet further example implementations, the computer-implemented process700 further comprises using a distance between the first badge and thesecond badge to verify that user of the first badge can properly observethe observation characterized in the electronic message. As antherexample, the computer-implemented process can comprise using operationaldata electronically collected from a machine to designate or verifyevent type. For instance, using operational data can comprise collectingoperational data from an industrial vehicle being operated by the userof the second badge.

The computer-implemented process 700 can still further comprise sendinga message to the second badge to cause the second badge to conveyfeedback to the user of the second badge. For instance, sending amessage to the second badge to cause the second badge to convey feedbackto the user of the second badge can comprise informing the user of thesecond badge that an observation had occurred and feedback was given.Sending a message to the second badge to cause the second badge toconvey feedback to the user of the second badge can also optionallycomprise prompting the user of the second badge to review aninstructional message displayed on a display screen of the second badge.

In optional configurations, the computer-implemented process 700 cancomprise using at least one feature of the first badge to captureinformation associated with the observation, which is incorporated intothe electronic message. For instance, using at least one feature of thefirst badge can comprise using at least one of, capturing an image usinga camera, capturing a video, and recording data using a sensor.

The computer-implemented process 700 can still further compriseproviding feedback from the first badge to the second badge. Feedbackcan come from or in response to the observation. Feedback can also bedirectly generated, or automatically generated based upon past datacollected with regard to a geo-location, worker ID or other measurabledata.

Referring to FIG. 8, a computer-implemented process 800 of trackingevents, comprises detecting, at 802, by a first badge, the presence of asecond badge that is within a wireless communication range of the firstbadge, thus designating an encounter. For instance, the first badge candetect the presence of a second badge using an ultra-wide band radio ofthe first badge to communicate with an ultra-wide band radio of thesecond badge, using a Bluetooth radio of the first badge to communicatewith a Bluetooth radio of the second badge, or a combination thereof,e.g., by using both Bluetooth and ultra-wide band implement zones orranges.

The computer implemented process also comprises performing, at 804, byprocessor executing instructions read out from memory, an event loggingtransaction in response to the encounter. Event logging is carried outby identifying, at 806, an event type associated with the second badge.For instance, identifying an event type associated with the second badgecan comprise receiving from the second badge, at least one of anidentifier associated with the user of the second badge, a badgeidentifier associated with the second badge, a task identifierassociated with the second badge, a position of the second badge, and anevent identifier associated with the second badge. Identifying an eventtype at 806 can also optionally comprise receiving from a positioningsystem, the location of the second badge, where the location of thesecond badge is derived from at least one of the relative position ofthe second badge relative to the first badge, or a coordinate locationof the second badge, and using the location of the second badge toidentify an event type. Identifying an event type at 806 can furtheroptionally comprise extracting electronic metadata, the metadatacorresponding to at least one of time read from an electronic clock,data extracted from a health and wellness database, information receivedfrom a task manager, and information received from a labor managementsystem.

Event logging is further carried out by identifying, at 808, anelectronic pinpoint that is linked to the identified event type, theidentified pinpoint specifying an observable characteristic associatedwith the event type. For instance, the computer-implemented process 800can also optionally comprise identifying an electronic pinpoint byidentifying at least one pinpoint directed to a behavior-basedcharacteristic of the user of the second badge.

Event logging is further carried out by outputting, at 810, a prompt toa user of the first badge that is associated with the identifiedelectronic pinpoint, and receiving, at 812, by the first badge, from theuser of the first badge, an electronic acknowledgement that a user ofthe second badge has engaged in an occurrence of the identified eventtype.

Event logging is still further carried out by receiving, at 814, by thefirst badge, from the user of the first badge, a response to theidentified pinpoint. For instance, the computer-implemented process 800can comprise receiving a voice command from the user of the first badge,and converting the voice command to an electronic response to theidentified pinpoint.

The computer-implemented process 800 also comprises wirelesslycommunicating, at 816 an event record to a remote server, the eventrecord comprising an identification of the event type, and the responseto the pinpoint.

The computer-implemented process 800 can further comprise communicatinga signal to the second badge that causes the second badge to output anotification to the user of the second badge that feedback was received.For instance, the received feedback can be responsive to a positiveoccurrence of an event, responsive to a negative occurrence of an event,etc. In some example configurations, the signal can be operativelyconfigured to cause the second badge to queue up a microlearninginstruction tied specifically to the response to the identifiedpinpoint.

The computer-implemented process 800 can optionally comprise modifyingthe event record to indicate that feedback was provided by the user ofthe first badge to the user of the second badge.

The computer-implemented process 800 can comprise transmitting the eventrecord to the server in such a way that the user of the second badgeremains anonymous, in such a way that the user of the first badgeremains anonymous, or that both the user of the first badge and thesecond badge remain anonymous.

The computer-implemented process 800 can also further comprise receivinga signal indicating that the second badge is within a geo-zone,receiving a geo-record of electronically recorded events associated withthe second badge within the geo-zone, and determining whether the userof the second badge engaged in a predetermined action associated withthe event type based upon the response to the identified pinpoint andbased upon the geo-record. In an example, the user of the second badgeis operating a materials handling vehicle. As such, thecomputer-implemented process 800 further comprises receiving a signalindicating that the second badge is within a geo-zone by receiving asignal wirelessly communicated by the materials handling vehicle inresponse to the materials handling vehicle entering a designatedgeo-zone as detected by an environmental based location tracking systemon the materials handling vehicle. The computer-implemented process 800further comprises receiving a geo-record of electronically recordedevents by receiving data collected by a processor on the materialshandling vehicle in response to detecting that the materials handlingvehicle is in a geo-zone.

The computer-implemented process 800 can further comprise outputting aprompt to a user of the first badge that is associated with theidentified electronic pinpoint by presenting an opportunity to providefeedback at the discretion of the first user where a response isoptional. As another example, the computer-implemented process cancomprise outputting a prompt to a user of the first badge that isassociated with the identified electronic pinpoint by evaluating atleast one parameter associated with an operation to determine a priorityfor receiving feedback, and outputting the prompt if the evaluationexceeds a level associated with the determined priority.

Referring to FIG. 9, a computer-implemented process 900 of trackingevents, comprises detecting, at 902, by a first badge, the presence of asecond badge that is within a wireless communication range of the firstbadge. The computer-implemented process 900 also comprises performing,at 904, by processor executing on the first badge, an event loggingtransaction in response to detecting the presence of the second badge.The event logging transaction is carried out by identifying, at 906, anevent type associated with the second badge, and identifying, at 910, anelectronic pinpoint that is linked to the identified event type, wherethe identified pinpoint specifies an observable characteristicassociated with the event type. The event logging transaction is furthercarried out by outputting, at 912, a prompt to a user of the first badgethat is associated with the identified electronic pinpoint, andreceiving, at 914, by the first badge, from the user of the first badge,an electronic acknowledgement that a user of the second badge hasengaged in an occurrence of the identified event type. The event loggingtransaction further comprises receiving, at 916, by the first badge,from the user of the first badge, a response to the identified pinpoint,and wirelessly communicating, at 918, an event record to a remoteserver, the event record comprising an identification of the event type,and the response to the pinpoint.

Computer System Overview

Referring to FIG. 10, a schematic block diagram illustrates an exemplarycomputer system 1000 for implementing the various processes describedherein. The exemplary computer system 1000 includes one or more(hardware) microprocessors (μP) 1010 and corresponding (hardware) memory1020 (e.g., random access memory and/or read only memory) that areconnected to a system bus 1030. Information can be passed between thesystem bus 1030 (via a suitable bridge 1040) and a local bus 1050 thatis used to communicate with various input/output devices. For instance,the local bus 1050 is used to interface peripherals with the one or moremicroprocessors (μP) 1010, such as storage 1060 (e.g., hard diskdrives); removable media storage devices 1070 (e.g., flash drives,DVD-ROM drives, CD-ROM drives, floppy drives, etc.); I/O devices 1080such as input device (e.g., mouse, keyboard, scanner, etc.) outputdevices (e.g., monitor, printer, etc.); and a network adapter 1090. Theabove list of peripherals is presented by way of illustration, and isnot intended to be limiting. Other peripheral devices may be suitablyintegrated into the computer system 1000.

The microprocessor(s) 1010 control operation of the exemplary computersystem 1000. Moreover, one or more of the microprocessor(s) 1010 executecomputer readable code (e.g., stored in the memory 1020, storage 1060,removable media insertable into the removable media storage 1070 orcombinations thereof, collectively or individually referred to ascomputer-program products) that instructs the microprocessor(s) 1010 toimplement the computer-implemented processes herein.

The computer-implemented processes herein may be implemented as amachine-executable process executed on a computer system, e.g., one ormore of the processing devices 102, 126, etc., of FIG. 1, on aparticular computing device such as the vehicle computer described withreference to FIG. 2, on the badges of FIGS. 3-4, or combination thereof.

Thus, the exemplary computer system or components thereof can implementprocesses and/or computer-implemented processes stored on one or morecomputer-readable storage devices as set out in greater detail herein.Other computer configurations may also implement the processes and/orcomputer-implemented processes stored on one or more computer-readablestorage devices as set out in greater detail herein. Computer-programcode for carrying out operations for aspects of the present disclosuremay be written in any combination of one or more programming languages.The program code may execute entirely on the computer system 1000 orpartly on the computer system 1000. In the latter scenario, the remotecomputer may be connected to the computer system 1000 through any typeof network connection, e.g., using the network adapter 1090 of thecomputer system 1000.

In implementing computer aspects of the present disclosure, anycombination of computer-readable medium may be utilized. Thecomputer-readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium, acomputer-readable storage medium, or a combination thereof. Moreover, acomputer-readable storage medium may be implemented in practice as oneor more distinct mediums.

A computer-readable signal medium is a transitory propagating signal perse. A computer-readable signal medium may include computer readableprogram code embodied therein, for example, as a propagated data signalin baseband or as part of a carrier wave. More specifically, acomputer-readable signal medium does not encompass a computer-readablestorage medium.

A computer-readable storage medium is a tangible device/hardware thatcan retain and store a program (instructions) for use by or inconnection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device,e.g., a computer or other processing device set out more fully herein.Notably, a computer-readable storage medium does not encompass acomputer-readable signal medium. Thus, a computer readable storagemedium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitorysignals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagatingelectromagnetic waves through a transmission media.

Specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readablestorage medium include the following: a hard disk, a random-accessmemory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmableread-only memory (EPROM), Flash memory, a portable computer storagedevice, an optical storage device such as a compact disc read-onlymemory (CD-ROM) or digital video disk (DVD), or any suitable combinationof the foregoing. In particular, a computer-readable storage mediumincludes computer-readable hardware such as a computer-readable storagedevice, e.g., memory. Here, a computer-readable storage device andcomputer-readable hardware are physical, tangible implementations thatare non-transitory.

By non-transitory, it is meant that, unlike a transitory propagatingsignal per se, which will naturally cease to exist, the contents of thecomputer-readable storage device or computer-readable hardware thatdefine the claimed subject matter persists until acted upon by anexternal action. For instance, program code loaded into random accessmemory (RAM) is deemed non-transitory in that the content will persistuntil acted upon, e.g., by removing power, by overwriting, deleting,modifying, etc.

Moreover, since hardware comprises physical element(s) or component(s)of a corresponding computer system, hardware does not encompasssoftware, per se.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure.As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of oneor more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,components, and/or groups thereof.

The description of the present disclosure has been presented forpurposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to beexhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Manymodifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art without departing from the scope and spirit of thedisclosure.

Having thus described the invention of the present application in detailand by reference to embodiments thereof, it will be apparent thatmodifications and variations are possible without departing from thescope of the invention defined in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented process of trackingevents, comprising: detecting that a first electronic badge is within apredetermined range of a second electronic badge and has formed atemporary wireless communication network therebetween, thus designatingan encounter; and performing, by a processor executing instructions readout from memory, an event logging transaction responsive to theencounter by: receiving, from the first electronic badge, an electronicmessage characterizing an observation made by the user of the firstelectronic badge relative to a user of the second electronic badge;converting the electronic message received from the first electronicbadge into a pinpoint response; and generating an event recordcomprising an identification of an event type, and the pinpointresponse.
 2. The computer-implemented process of claim 1, wherein:detecting that a first electronic badge is within a predetermined rangeof a second electronic badge and has formed a temporary wirelesscommunication network therebetween comprises: detecting that the firstelectronic badge and the second electronic badge have established atemporary, short range, personal wireless network connection via atleast one of Bluetooth or ultra-wide band.
 3. The computer-implementedprocess of claim 2, wherein: detecting that a first electronic badge iswithin a predetermined range of a second electronic badge and has formeda temporary wireless communication network therebetween comprises:forming the temporary, short range, personal wireless network connectioncomprised of a first perimeter of a zone implemented by ultra-wide bandand a second zone implemented by Bluetooth.
 4. The computer-implementedprocess of claim 1 further comprising: communicating an instruction tothe first electronic badge to prompt to a user of the first electronicbadge with a message conveying an opportunity to provide observationalfeedback; and receiving, from the first electronic badge, via input ofthe user of the first electronic badge, an electronic acknowledgementthat a user of the second electronic badge has engaged in an occurrenceof an observable event.
 5. The computer-implemented process of claim 1further comprising: identifying the event type as an event carried outby the user of the second electronic badge that is observable by theuser of the first electronic badge; identifying an electronic pinpointthat is linked to the identified event type, the identified pinpointspecifying an observable characteristic associated with the event type;and communicating an instruction to the first electronic badge to promptto a user of the first electronic badge with a message conveying theelectronic pinpoint; wherein: receiving, from the first electronicbadge, an electronic message characterizing an observation made by theuser of the first electronic badge relative to a user of the secondelectronic badge comprises receiving a confirmation as to whether anaction associated with the identified pinpoint was observed; andconverting the electronic message received from the first electronicbadge into a pinpoint response comprises associating the pinpointresponse with the identified pinpoint.
 6. The computer-implementedprocess of claim 1 further comprising: receiving position informationwith respect to at least one of the first electronic badge and thesecond electronic badge; utilizing the received position information todetermine at least one of the event type and at least one pinpoint,where the pinpoint is linked to an identified event type, the pinpointspecifying a characteristic observable by a user associated with thefirst electronic badge that is associated with the event type.
 7. Thecomputer-implemented process according to claim 6, wherein: receivingposition information with respect to at least one of the firstelectronic badge and the second electronic badge comprises at least oneof: receiving coordinates of at least one of the first electronic badgeand the second electronic badge from an environmental based locationtracking system; identifying the position of the second electronic badgerelative to the position of the first electronic badge; and identifyingthe position of the first electronic badge, the second electronic badge,or both based upon detection within the range of a third electronicbadge fixedly installed in a known location within the environment. 8.The computer-implemented process of claim 1 further comprisingperforming at least one of: using a reading from at least one of adirection sensor and an orientation sensor of the first electronic badgeto verify that the user of the first electronic badge can properlyobserve the observation characterized in the electronic message andrejecting the observation if it is judged that the user of the firstelectronic badge cannot have made the observation characterized in theelectronic message; and using a distance between the first electronicbadge and the second electronic badge to verify that the user of thefirst electronic badge can properly observe the observationcharacterized in the electronic message and rejecting the observation ifit is judged that the user of the first electronic badge cannot havemade the observation characterized in the electronic message
 9. Thecomputer-implemented process of claim 1 further comprising: sending amessage to the second electronic badge to cause the second electronicbadge to convey information informing the user of the second electronicbadge that an observation had occurred and feedback was given.
 10. Thecomputer-implemented process of claim 1 further comprising: using atleast one sensor of the first electronic badge to capture informationassociated with the observation which is incorporated into theelectronic message, comprising at least one of: capturing an image usinga camera; capturing a video; and recording data using a sensor.
 11. Acomputer-implemented process of tracking events, comprising: detecting,by a first electronic badge, the presence of a second electronic badgethat is within a limited wireless communication range of the firstelectronic badge, thus designating an encounter; performing, byprocessor executing instructions read out from memory, an event loggingtransaction in response to the encounter by: identifying an event typeassociated with the second electronic badge; identifying an electronicpinpoint that is linked to the identified event type, the identifiedpinpoint specifying a characteristic observable by a user of the firstelectronic badge that is associated with the event type; outputting aprompt to the user of the first electronic badge that is associated withthe identified electronic pinpoint; receiving, by the first electronicbadge, from the user of the first electronic badge, an electronicacknowledgement that a user of the second electronic badge has engagedin an occurrence of the identified event type based upon an observation;receiving, by the first electronic badge, from the user of the firstelectronic badge, a response to the identified pinpoint; and wirelesslycommunicating an event record to a remote server, the event recordcomprising an identification of the event type, and the response to thepinpoint.
 12. The computer-implemented process of claim 11, wherein:detecting, by a first electronic badge, the presence of a secondelectronic badge that is within a limited wireless communication rangeof the first electronic badge comprises: using an ultra-wide band radioof the first electronic badge to communicate with an ultra-wide bandradio of the second electronic badge, using a Bluetooth radio of thefirst electronic badge to communicate with a Bluetooth radio of thesecond electronic badge, or a combination thereof.
 13. Thecomputer-implemented process of claim 11, wherein: identifying an eventtype associated with the second electronic badge comprises at least oneof: receiving from the second electronic badge, at least one of: anidentifier associated with the user of the second electronic badge; anelectronic badge identifier associated with the second electronic badge;a task identifier associated with the second electronic badge; aposition of the second electronic badge; and an event identifierassociated with the second electronic badge.
 14. Thecomputer-implemented process of claim 11, wherein: identifying an eventtype associated with the second badge comprises: receiving from apositioning system, the location of the second electronic badge, wherethe location of the second electronic badge is derived from at least oneof the relative position of the second electronic badge relative to thefirst electronic badge, or a coordinate location of the secondelectronic badge; and using the location of the second badge to identifyan event type.
 15. The computer-implemented process of claim 11,wherein: identifying an event type associated with the second badgecomprises: extracting electronic metadata, the metadata corresponding toat least one of time read from an electronic clock, data extracted froma health and wellness database, information received from a taskmanager, and information received from a labor management system; andusing the extracted electronic metadata to identify an event type. 16.The computer-implemented process of claim 11 further comprising:communicating a signal to the second badge that causes the second badgeto output a notification to the user of the second badge that feedbackwas received.
 17. The computer-implemented process of claim 14 furthercomprising: queuing up a microlearning instruction tied specifically tothe response to the identified pinpoint.
 18. The computer-implementedprocess of claim 14 further comprising: transmitting the event record tothe server in such a way that the user of the second electronic badgeremains anonymous, the user of the first electronic badge remainsanonymous, or both users remain anonymous.
 19. The computer-implementedprocess of claim 11, wherein: outputting a prompt to a user of the firstelectronic badge that is associated with the identified electronicpinpoint comprises: evaluating at least one parameter associated with anoperation to determine a priority for receiving feedback; and outputtingthe prompt if the evaluation exceeds a level associated with thedetermined priority.
 20. A computer-implemented process of trackingevents, comprising: detecting, by a first electronic badge, the presenceof a second electronic badge that is within a wireless communicationrange of the first electronic badge; performing, by processor executingon the first electronic badge, an event logging transaction in responseto detecting the presence of the second electronic badge by: identifyingan event type associated with the second electronic badge by receiving ageo-record of electronically recorded events associated with the secondbadge within a corresponding geo-zone and selecting an electronicallyrecorded event as the event type; identifying an electronic pinpointthat is linked to the identified event type based upon the geo-record,the identified pinpoint specifying an observable characteristicassociated with the event type; outputting a prompt to a user of thefirst electronic badge that is associated with the identified electronicpinpoint; receiving, by the first electronic badge, from the user of thefirst electronic badge, an electronic acknowledgement that a user of thesecond electronic badge has engaged in an occurrence of the identifiedevent type based upon observation; receiving, by the first electronicbadge, from the user of the first electronic badge, a response to theidentified pinpoint; wirelessly transmitting a message to the secondelectronic badge indicating that an observation was made; and wirelesslycommunicating an event record to a remote server, the event recordcomprising an identification of the event type, and the response to thepinpoint.